Road Trip: The Cost of Driving From Chicago, Illinois to Bristol, Maine

Planning a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Bristol, Maine? Get ready for an exciting adventure filled with stunning sights and memorable moments. But before you hit the road, it's important to map out your journey and budget accordingly. In this blog post, we'll break down the cost of driving from Chicago to Bristol based on current gas prices. Buckle up and let's get started!

Route 1: Taking the I-90 E and I-87 N

Distance: Approximately 1,050 miles Time: Around 16 hours

If you're looking for the fastest route to Bristol, hop onto the I-90 E and follow it all the way until Albany, New York. From there, merge onto I-87 N and continue until you reach your destination. This route will take you through scenic states like Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York.

To calculate the cost of this trip, we'll need to consider gas prices and any tolls you may encounter along the way. As of our latest research, the average gas price along this route is $2.85 per gallon. Since the exact fuel efficiency of your vehicle may vary, let's assume an average mileage of 25 miles per gallon.

Now, let's do the math.

The total distance for this route is around 1,050 miles. Divide this by our assumed mileage of 25 miles per gallon, and we get 42 gallons of gas required for the entire trip. Multiply this by the average gas price of $2.85 per gallon, and the cost of fuel alone comes out to approximately $119.70.

Additionally, be prepared to encounter tolls along the way. Expect around $35 for toll fees, depending on the specific toll routes you may take.

Route 2: Opting for a Scenic Drive via I-94 E, I-75 N, and I-295 N

Distance: Approximately 1,200 miles Time: Around 20 hours

Alternatively, if you're in the mood to soak in some breathtaking scenery, consider taking a slightly longer but more picturesque route. Take the I-94 E until Detroit, Michigan, then merge onto I-75 N. Continue on I-75 N until Portland, Maine, and finally take the I-295 N to reach Bristol.

This route will take you through states like Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, and Maine. It's a longer drive, but the stunning landscapes and charming towns you'll encounter along the way will make it well worth it!

For this route, let's again consider gas prices at $2.85 per gallon and assume an average mileage of 25 miles per gallon.

The total distance for this route is around 1,200 miles. Dividing this by our assumed mileage, we require 48 gallons of gas for the entire trip. At an average price of $2.85 per gallon, the estimated cost of fuel comes out to approximately $136.80.

Regarding tolls, be prepared to spend an estimated $45 on toll fees, depending on the specific toll routes you may encounter.

Final Thoughts: Plan and Budget Accordingly

Embarking on a road trip from Chicago to Bristol is an exciting opportunity to explore new places and create lasting memories. As you plan your journey, consider the routes, their distances, the time they take, and the associated costs.

Remember, gas prices and toll fees can fluctuate, so it's always wise to check for the most up-to-date information before hitting the road. Be sure to factor in the mileage of your own vehicle and adjust the cost calculations accordingly.

Now that you have an estimate of the costs involved in each route, it's time to make a decision based on your preferences, budget, and available time. Whichever route you choose, enjoy the adventure, embrace the open road, and savor every moment!

Safe travels!